L'Art de Vivre photos and videos

Testimonials for L'Art de Vivre

Jane Nee; October 2017

Dear Emma,

I am now back home; but, wishing I was still in France on "L'Art de Vivre". The trip was fabulous, from start to finish. The crew took such good care of us; the food, the service, the fun---it was incredible. I will be doing this again. Thank you, so much, for your assistance in making this possible.

Denis Ives; June 2017

The boat was generally as expected. By chance, we had only 4 passengers not 8, and that gave an unexpected feeling of space and comfort. In addition the service and work of the crew was great.Boat rate = 7/10Cruiseappreciate = The cruise from Chevroches to Auxerre on the Nivernais Canal went from calm and bucolic to concluding at a bigger town (Auxerre). That felt right. Interesting moorings and visits.

I rate Hotels Afloat an 8 out of 10: Attention to detail though would like more info about tours and visits on the site...We may book again, depending upon locations, routes and costs.

About the barge "L'Art de Vivre"

A cruise aboard this stately ship will surely leave you with a taste for the finer side of life, which is exactly what L'Art de Vivre personifies.The barge comprises four suites which can be configured as twins or doubles, each with modern en-suite facilities. You may choose to relax by using our bikes or by lounging on the sun deck or in the Jacuzzi. You may even take a hot air balloon flight to view the surrounding area (an optional extra on this cruise).

L'Art de Vivre has quite a history! The barge was originally built in England during WWI to act as a supply vessel to allied troops of the Somme.

Plan of L'Art de Vivre

L'Art de Vivre cruise routes & itineraries

Cruising between Auxerre and Chevroches on the River Yonne and Nivernais Canal in Burgundy

AuxerreSundayGuests are met at the ideally positioned Hotel Westminster in Paris and transferred by private, chauffeured minibus to the pretty LArt de Vivre.Following a Champagne welcome, you are free to explore the Medieval town of Auxerre, or take a stroll along the banks of the River Yonne before returning for dinner on board.

Auxerre to VincellesMondayOur morning cruise takes us through some delightful locks and past vineyard-clad hillsides to our rural mooring at Vincelles.The afternoon excursion is to Chablis, home of one of the most famous white wines in the world.A tasting in one of aged cellars in the town will introduce you to some of the local Petit Chablis and Chablis wines.Dinner on board.

Vincelles to Mailly-la-VilleTuesdayAfter breakfast, our excursion is to the medieval town of Auxerre.Originally the capital of Lower Burgundy, the town prides itself on its fine churches and particularly the magnificent cathedral situated close to the river. There are numerous lavish Renaissance houses here.We then return to the hotel barge for a cruise southwards through rich pastures, past grazing Charolais cattle to the sleepy village of Mailly la Ville. After your relaxed lunch on board, perhaps this is a good time to enjoy a walk or bicycle ride along the towpath.Dinner on board.

Mailly-la-Ville to Le SaussoisWednesdayThis morning we visit the charming 14th century medieval village of Noyers sur Surein, one of the most beautiful villages of France, on an excursion through delightful countryside. In the afternoon we cruise past the cliffs at Le Saussois, a stunning natural setting, with an international climbing center. The cliffs hide a hidden romantic sign... can you spot it?There will also be an opportunity to enjoy delightful walks or bicycle rides along the towpath before dinner ashore in the 5 star hotel Le Chateau de Vault-de-Lugny. This secluded and romantic setting dates back almost 900 years!

Le Saussois to Lucy-sur-YonneThursdayIn the morning, we continue our journey through the Yonne Valley to our mooring at Lucy-sur-Yonne. After lunch on board, we enjoy an excursion to the fascinating pilgrimage town of Vezeley, one of Burgundys most famous treasures. Savour the light and atmoshere within the Romanesque Basilica of St Mary Magdalene, the perfect place for some quiet contemplation. In the village, you'll discover craft shops and fine views of the surrounding countryside. Dinner aboard.

Lucy-sur-Yonne to ChevrochesFridayAfter our busy afternoon yesterday, now is the time to relax and admire the scenery during our morning cruise through beautiful countryside to our final mooring at the pretty canalside village of Chevroches.In the afternoon, we visit the elegant Chateau de Bazoches, built in the 12th century and known as a fine example of a trapezoidal construction. Illustrious visitors to the chateau included Richard the Lionheart.The chateau was later remodelled by Marechal Vauban and there are wonderful views from its elevated hillside setting. Captain's Farewell Dinner on board.

ChevrochesSaturdayAfter breakfast, guests are transferred to the Hotel Westminster in Paris.